Rep. Tom Walsh

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Auto Damage Appraiser Licensing Board within the Division of Occupational Licensure to regulate professionals who assess vehicle damage. The board will consist of seven members appointed from the auto body repair industry, insurance companies, the Attorney General's office, and consumer representatives, with one member serving as chair. Key provisions include limiting members to two consecutive three-year terms and requiring vacancies to be filled within 60 days. The legislation aims to create a structured oversight body specifically for auto damage appraisers in Massachusetts.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles to check for open safety recalls before issuing vehicle registrations or renewal notices. If a vehicle has an open recall, the owner must receive written notice and complete the necessary repairs before their registration can be renewed, with the exception of specific circumstances like parts shortages or manufacturer delays. The law mandates that recall notices clearly explain the defect, confirm that repairs are free at authorized dealers, and state that registration will be denied if repairs are not made by the next renewal date. This measure directly affects vehicle owners and dealers by linking registration renewal to the completion of safety repairs, while maintaining existing legal liabilities for manufacturers.

Maddy summaryThis bill aims to increase access to hearing aids by modifying existing laws that currently restrict how physicians and audiologists can sell these devices. It allows audiologists and otolaryngologists to sell hearing aids to patients they have treated, provided they clearly disclose all fees and costs before the sale and inform the patient of their right to purchase elsewhere. Additionally, the legislation permits audiologists and hearing instrument specialists to sell hearing aids while working for or being affiliated with an otolaryngologist. These changes are designed to reduce barriers for patients seeking hearing care by expanding who can provide these services and ensuring transparency in pricing.

Substituted, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House No. 2083) [Local Approval Received]. September 21, 2023.

By Representative Walsh of Peabody and Senator Tarr, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2417) of Thomas P. Walsh and Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to establish the Massachusetts law enforcement memorial fund. Public Safety and Homeland Security.

Substituted, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House No. 3995) [Local Approval Received]. August 17, 2023.

Substituted by the House, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House, No. 2100, changed) [Local Approval Received]. June 8, 2023.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal right for home buyers in Massachusetts to have their prospective homes inspected by a licensed professional within ten days of an offer being accepted. It prohibits sellers and their agents from forcing buyers to waive this inspection right, with the exception of sales conducted at licensed auctions. The legislation also prevents sellers from accepting offers from buyers who explicitly state they intend to skip or limit the inspection, unless the buyer is a close family member of the seller. By amending existing state laws, the act ensures that buyers can evaluate critical components like the roof, foundation, and electrical systems before finalizing a purchase.

Senate, October 19, -- 2023 The committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, to whom was referred the petitions (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 197) of Michael O. Moore, John J. Cronin, John H. Rogers, Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr. and other members of the General Court for legislation to protect consumer rights in purchasing safe and habitable homes; and (accompanied by bill, House, No. 245) of Brian M. Ashe and others for legislation to provide for a right to home inspections for buyers, reports the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2474).